Physiotherapy students at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) gained insight into the diverse opportunities in their profession at the SMU Physiotherapy Career Expo 2026, held on 28 August 2026 at the Department of Physiotherapy.
Organised by the Student Physiotherapy Consortium (SPC) under the theme “Connect. Learn. Grow.”, the Expo aimed to strengthen the relationship between students and the wider physiotherapy profession. It offered students an opportunity to engage directly with experienced practitioners and explore career pathways beyond conventional clinical practice.
Rather than following a traditional conference format, the organisers established interactive career stations in the Physiotherapy Gym Hall and Electrotherapy Hall. Students rotated between stations and joined discussions on professional development, postgraduate studies, research, entrepreneurship, leadership, and the practical realities of different areas of physiotherapy.
The event addressed an important question for students: what can they become with a physiotherapy degree? “Students need exposure to the profession beyond what they encounter in the classroom. By bringing experienced professionals into direct conversation with students, the Expo allowed them to understand the different directions their careers can take,” said Vuyelo Baloyi, Chairperson of the Student Physiotherapy Consortium.
The Expo highlighted a broad range of professional possibilities, including sports physiotherapy. Students interacted with Sekwati Thabo, Sports Physiotherapist at Thabamoopo Hospital and the Limpopo Academy of Sports, whose experience includes working with Bafana Bafana and national youth teams. Thabang Temo, a physiotherapist at Mamelodi Sundowns FC, also shared insights into elite sport and national sporting structures.
Entrepreneurship and healthcare leadership were also explored. Danny Matlou, Founding Director of the Midrand Back and Neck Centre, demonstrated how physiotherapy can intersect with business development, leadership and corporate governance.
“Physiotherapy provides an exceptionally strong professional foundation, but practitioners can expand their impact through entrepreneurship, leadership and strategic involvement in healthcare. Students should understand that their first clinical position does not predetermine their career trajectory,” said Matlou.
Academic and research opportunities were featured prominently through the participation of Dr Prudence Moatshe, a physiotherapist, part-time lecturer at the University of Pretoria and PhD candidate.
“Students should recognise that their qualification can become the foundation for a career in research, education, leadership and specialised practice. Exposure to professionals who have taken different paths can help them make more informed decisions about their own futures,” said Moatshe.
The Expo also introduced students to rehabilitation, disability advocacy, community development and adapted sport. The participation of the Health Professions Council of South Africa added a regulatory dimension, with discussions on professional registration, Continuing Professional Development and professional responsibilities.
Through mentorship, networking and direct engagement, the initiative created opportunities for future collaboration and professional guidance. Its success may lay the groundwork for an annual career-development platform that includes mentorship programmes, internships, postgraduate information sessions, and entrepreneurship workshops.
The SMU Physiotherapy Career Expo demonstrated the value of connecting students with the profession they are preparing to enter. By promoting informed career choices and broadening professional horizons, SMU continues to support education, innovation and the development of healthcare professionals who can contribute meaningfully to society.
By Dimakatso Modise
